Ajax vs. Vivint: Which Security System Is Better?

Ajax and Vivint both offer professionally monitored security, mobile apps, cameras, video doorbells, smart-home controls, and professional installation. However, they use very different business models.

Vivint sells a professionally installed security and automation service built around Vivint equipment, monitoring, financing, and ongoing service.

Ajax is a professional security platform sold through independent dealers. Customers purchase their equipment and can choose professional installation, self-installation, self-monitoring, or professional alarm monitoring through a compatible provider such as Alarm365.

For homeowners and businesses comparing Ajax vs. Vivint, the biggest differences involve equipment ownership, installation, monitoring flexibility, outdoor protection, commercial capabilities, and long-term control over the system.

Ajax vs. Vivint at a Glance

Feature	Ajax	Vivint
Primary focus	Professional residential and commercial security	Professionally installed residential security and automation
Equipment purchase	Purchased through a dealer or retailer	Purchased directly as part of a Vivint system
DIY installation	Available	Generally professionally installed
Professional installation	Available	Standard approach
Self-monitoring	Available	Professional monitoring is included with Vivint systems
Professional monitoring	Available through Alarm365	Provided by Vivint
Monitoring-provider choice	Greater flexibility	Tied to the Vivint service ecosystem
Long-term agreement	Depends on chosen monitoring provider	Contract or financing terms may apply
Cameras and doorbells	Integrated Ajax video ecosystem	Strong integrated camera lineup
Outdoor intrusion detectors	Extensive selection	Primarily camera-based outdoor deterrence
Photo-verification detectors	Available	Uses integrated video and camera analytics
Fire and life safety	Extensive Ajax product lineup	Available
Water-leak protection	Detection and automatic shutoff options	Detection available
Commercial applications	Strong	Primarily residential
System expansion	Extensive	Customizable within the Vivint ecosystem
Equipment appearance	Coordinated black or white designs	Modern coordinated designs

The Main Difference: Platform vs. Service

Ajax

Ajax is a security platform that can be purchased from an independent dealer and configured for a wide range of properties.

The Ajax ecosystem combines intrusion protection, video surveillance, fire and life-safety devices, and automation products.

Customers can choose:

• DIY or professional installation

• Self-monitoring through the Ajax app

• Professional monitoring through Alarm365

• Residential or commercial system configurations

• Indoor and outdoor intrusion protection

• Cameras, video doorbells, and NVR recording

• Fire, carbon monoxide, and flood protection

• Security-driven automation

This approach gives the owner greater control over how the system is installed, monitored, expanded, and serviced.

Vivint

Vivint provides a complete security service that includes professional system design, installation, equipment, an integrated app, and 24/7 monitoring.

Vivint emphasizes professional installation, customizable smart-home packages, financing options, and continuous monitoring.

This can be attractive to someone who wants one company to handle the entire process and does not want to select, install, or configure the equipment independently.

Equipment Ownership and Financing

Understanding how the equipment is purchased is important when comparing Ajax and Vivint.

Buying Ajax Equipment

Ajax equipment is normally purchased outright from a dealer or retailer. After purchasing the equipment, the customer can decide whether to:

• Install it personally

• Hire a professional installer

• Self-monitor through the Ajax app

• Add professional monitoring

• Change monitoring providers when compatible

• Expand the system over time

Purchasing the equipment separately from the monitoring service can give customers greater long-term flexibility.

Buying a Vivint System

Vivint offers equipment financing subject to credit approval. Qualified customers may finance equipment for up to 60 months, while customers who purchase the equipment upfront may be eligible for month-to-month service arrangements.

Depending on the offer selected, a Vivint customer may have:

• An equipment-purchase agreement

• A separate financing agreement

• Professional-installation charges

• A monitoring-service agreement

• Monthly video or service costs

Before signing, customers should review the equipment price, financing term, monitoring commitment, cancellation provisions, and total cost over the full agreement.

Financing can reduce the initial expense, but it does not necessarily reduce the total cost of ownership.

Installation

Ajax Installation

Ajax wireless devices are designed for efficient installation. A device can be added to the system by scanning its QR code through an Ajax app and assigning it to the appropriate room or security group.

Ajax supports both DIY and professional installation.

DIY installation may work well for:

• Apartments

• Smaller houses

• Basic door and motion protection

• Customers familiar with wireless networking and mobile apps

Professional installation is valuable for:

• Outdoor motion protection

• Large homes and estates

• Commercial buildings

• Fire and life-safety systems

• Video-surveillance systems

• Automation and water-shutoff controls

The customer chooses the installation method rather than having it dictated by the platform.

Vivint Installation

Vivint is built around professional installation. A Vivint technician installs and configures the equipment as part of the service. Vivint currently advertises professional installation as a central feature of its offering.

This is convenient for customers who do not want to install their own sensors or cameras.

However, it also means Vivint is not generally positioned as a conventional DIY system that can simply be purchased online, installed independently, and connected to a separately selected monitoring provider.

Professional Monitoring

Both Ajax and Vivint can provide 24/7 professional monitoring.

Vivint Monitoring

Vivint systems include professional monitoring supplied through Vivint’s service ecosystem. Vivint advertises monitoring starting at $24.99 per month, although actual pricing depends on the equipment, features, package, and current offer.

Vivint monitoring can include:

• Alarm-event monitoring

• Emergency-response coordination

• Smart notifications

• False-alarm management

• Monitoring for compatible intrusion and life-safety devices

Customers who prefer one company to supply the equipment, installation, app, and monitoring may appreciate this arrangement.

Ajax Monitoring Through Alarm365

Ajax customers may self-monitor their systems or connect compatible equipment to professional monitoring.

Shop Ajax Security partners with Alarm365 to provide professional alarm monitoring for compatible Ajax systems.

Alarm365 monitoring can provide:

• 24/7 professional alarm monitoring

• Emergency-response coordination when required

• Mobile-app notifications and system control

• Support from a U.S.-based monitoring partner

• Flexible residential and commercial monitoring options

• Professional protection without replacing the Ajax equipment

This lets customers combine Ajax technology with professional monitoring while retaining more control over the equipment and service arrangement.

Monitoring availability, pricing, dispatch procedures, and agreement terms depend on the customer’s location and selected Alarm365 service.

Contracts and Long-Term Flexibility

This may be one of the most important differences between Ajax and Vivint.

Vivint offers both financed and upfront-purchase arrangements. Its current published offers include options involving a 36-month agreement, as well as month-to-month service when qualifying equipment is purchased upfront.

Because offers can change, buyers should obtain the full terms in writing and confirm:

• Total equipment price

• Length of equipment financing

• Monitoring term

• Monthly monitoring cost

• Installation and activation charges

• Video-service fees

• Early-cancellation provisions

• What happens when the financing term ends

• Whether the equipment can be used with another provider

Ajax equipment is typically purchased separately from professional monitoring. The customer can use the Ajax app for self-monitoring or select compatible professional monitoring through a provider such as Alarm365.

That separation between equipment and service can provide more flexibility if the customer’s monitoring needs change.

Wireless Security Technology

Ajax wireless devices communicate with the hub using Ajax’s proprietary Jeweller radio protocol. Compatible MotionCam devices use photo-verification technology to transmit images associated with alarm events.

Depending on the selected hub, Ajax can support multiple communication paths such as:

• Ethernet

• Wi-Fi

• Cellular connectivity

• Dual SIM cards

• More than one cellular carrier

These communication options can help maintain alarm transmission if one connection becomes unavailable.

Vivint uses its Smart Hub as the center of the installed system. The hub connects Vivint security, automation, doorbell, and camera products through one interface.

Both systems provide integrated mobile control. Ajax offers a wider selection of hubs and device configurations for customers designing more specialized residential or commercial systems.

Outdoor Security and Intrusion Detection

Ajax Outdoor Protection

Outdoor intrusion protection is one of Ajax’s greatest strengths.

Ajax offers purpose-built outdoor detectors for:

• Yards

• Driveways

• Gates

• Side passages

• Building exteriors

• Patios

• Storage areas

• Windows and doors

• Commercial perimeters

Available technologies include:

• Dual-sensor motion detection

• Curtain-style detection

• Anti-masking protection

• Adjustable detection ranges

• Pet-immunity features

• Alarm photo verification

For example, MotionCam Outdoor combines outdoor motion detection with a built-in camera for visual alarm verification.

These detectors are designed to identify intrusion activity before someone reaches the interior of the building.

Vivint Outdoor Protection

Vivint offers capable outdoor cameras with intelligent detection and active deterrence features. Its Outdoor Camera Pro 3 uses night vision, radar technology, surveillance zones, and Smart Deter features designed to discourage unwanted activity.

Vivint’s camera-based approach is well suited to homeowners who want video awareness and active light-and-sound deterrence.

Ajax offers a broader selection of dedicated alarm detectors for customers who want layered perimeter protection in addition to video surveillance.

Cameras and Video Doorbells

Vivint Cameras

Video is a major strength of the Vivint platform.

Vivint’s current camera lineup includes:

• Outdoor Camera Pro

• Doorbell Camera Pro

• Indoor Camera Pro

• Spotlight Pro

Vivint cameras support features such as two-way talk, night vision, intelligent detection, app access, and Smart Deter technology.

The Doorbell Camera Pro can identify visitors and packages and uses light and sound to help discourage potential package theft.

For customers who want a professionally installed residential system centered around integrated cameras, Vivint is a strong contender.

Ajax Video

The Ajax ecosystem includes:

• Video doorbells

• Indoor and outdoor cameras

• Turret and bullet cameras

• Network video recorders

• Motion detectors with built-in cameras

• Integration with supported third-party video products

Ajax cameras and intrusion devices can be managed within the broader Ajax security ecosystem.

Ajax is particularly strong when customers want to combine conventional video surveillance with dedicated intrusion sensors and alarm photo verification.

Photo Verification

Ajax MotionCam detectors contain a motion sensor and a built-in camera. When an alarm is triggered, the device can capture a series of still images associated with that event.

Compatible Ajax systems may support photos initiated by:

• Motion alarms

• Automation scenarios

• Schedules

• Authorized user requests

Photo verification helps the customer or monitoring station determine what caused an alarm without relying exclusively on continuous video recording.

Vivint uses its integrated camera platform and intelligent video analytics to provide visual awareness and proactive deterrence.

Vivint may appeal to customers who prioritize live and recorded video. Ajax may appeal to customers who want professional intrusion detectors that provide images directly associated with alarm activations.

Fire, Carbon Monoxide, and Flood Protection

Ajax offers an extensive selection of safety devices that can detect:

• Smoke

• Heat

• Rapid temperature increases

• Carbon monoxide

• Water leaks

The Ajax automation ecosystem can also activate compatible electric water valves when a leak is detected, helping limit property damage.

Vivint offers compatible smoke, carbon monoxide, freeze, and water-protection products as part of its professionally installed system.

Both systems can provide more than burglary protection. Ajax offers additional flexibility for customers who want to build security-driven automation around environmental events.

Smart-Home Automation

Vivint Automation

Smart-home integration is another major Vivint strength.

Depending on the package and installed equipment, Vivint can integrate:

• Smart locks

• Thermostats

• Lighting

• Garage-door controls

• Cameras

• Security sensors

• Voice-assistant features

The Vivint app and Smart Hub provide one interface for professionally configured home security and automation.

Ajax Automation

Ajax supports automation through compatible relays, smart switches, outlets, scenarios, and control devices.

An Ajax system can be configured to:

• Lock or unlock electric doors

• Operate gates and garage doors

• Control lighting

• Close water valves

• Activate exterior lights following an alarm

• Operate roller shutters

• Turn equipment on or off

• Perform scheduled security actions

Vivint is strong in consumer smart-home convenience. Ajax offers powerful automation focused on security, property protection, and custom professional applications.

Residential vs. Commercial Security

Vivint is primarily marketed as a residential security and smart-home service.

Ajax is designed for both residential and commercial applications, including:

• Homes and apartments

• Retail stores

• Offices

• Warehouses

• Restaurants

• Churches

• Schools

• Medical facilities

• Construction sites

• Storage buildings

• Multi-building properties

• Remote and industrial locations

Ajax offers outdoor detectors specifically designed for warehouses, industrial sites, and other demanding properties.

For a typical professionally installed smart home, Vivint may be a good fit. For a business, complex property, or system requiring specialized detectors, Ajax generally provides more design flexibility.

Company Ownership

Vivint is currently owned by NRG Energy. NRG completed its acquisition of Vivint Smart Home on March 10, 2023, after announcing an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $2.8 billion.

A change in corporate ownership does not by itself indicate that a security system is better or worse. The more important questions for a buyer are:

• Who owns the installed equipment?

• Who provides ongoing service?

• What agreement is required?

• Can the system be monitored elsewhere?

• What happens if the customer moves?

• What costs continue after equipment financing ends?

Customers should compare the current written terms rather than make a decision based only on a company’s ownership history.

Which System Should You Choose?

Choose Ajax if you want:

• Greater ownership and monitoring flexibility

• DIY or professional installation

• Advanced outdoor intrusion detection

• Motion detectors with photo verification

• Residential and commercial capabilities

• Multiple hub and communication options

• Extensive fire, flood, and automation products

• Professional monitoring through Alarm365

• A system that can be expanded over time

• The ability to purchase equipment through an independent dealer

Choose Vivint if you want:

• One company to provide equipment, installation, and monitoring

• Professional installation as part of the purchase

• A strong integrated residential camera system

• Smart-home automation configured for you

• Equipment-financing options

• Vivint’s Smart Deter camera features

• A residential system that requires minimal customer setup

Is Ajax Better Than Vivint?

Ajax is generally the better choice for customers who value equipment ownership, monitoring flexibility, outdoor perimeter protection, commercial-grade capabilities, advanced detectors, and the option of DIY or professional installation.

Vivint may be a better fit for homeowners who want a professionally installed residential security and smart-home package managed entirely by one provider.

The choice comes down to control versus convenience.

Ajax gives the customer more choices regarding equipment, installation, monitoring, and expansion. Vivint provides a bundled professional service designed to minimize the amount of system design and setup the homeowner must handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ajax cheaper than Vivint?

The total cost depends on the number of devices, cameras, installation requirements, monitoring plan, and financing terms.

Ajax generally requires purchasing equipment upfront, although individual dealers may offer payment options. Vivint offers equipment financing to qualified customers.

Buyers should compare the full cost over several years rather than comparing only the initial payment or advertised monthly price.

Can Ajax be professionally installed?

Yes. Ajax supports both professional and DIY installation. Professional installation is recommended for larger systems, commercial properties, outdoor detectors, video surveillance, life-safety equipment, and automation.

Can Ajax be professionally monitored?

Yes. Shop Ajax Security partners with Alarm365 to provide professional monitoring for compatible Ajax alarm systems.

Can I use Ajax without professional monitoring?

Yes. Ajax systems can be self-monitored through the Ajax app. Customers can receive notifications, arm and disarm the system, check device status, manage users, and view compatible cameras without subscribing to professional alarm monitoring.

Separate charges may apply for cellular service, SIM cards, video storage, or third-party services.

Does Vivint require a contract?

The answer depends on how the equipment is purchased and which current offer is selected. Vivint advertises both contract-based offers and month-to-month service options when eligible equipment is purchased upfront. Customers should review the complete written agreement before signing.

Can Vivint equipment be monitored by another alarm company?

Customers should verify this directly with Vivint and any prospective monitoring provider before purchasing or attempting to change services. Compatibility may depend on the equipment generation, account status, installed communicator, software, and service arrangement.

Is Ajax suitable for businesses?

Yes. Ajax is designed for residential and commercial security and offers a wide range of intrusion, outdoor, video, fire, flood, and automation products.

Who owns Vivint?

Vivint is owned by NRG Energy, which completed its acquisition of Vivint Smart Home in March 2023.

Shop Ajax Security Systems

Ajax provides a professional alternative to bundled security services by giving customers greater control over their equipment, installation, monitoring, and future expansion.

Explore our selection of Ajax alarm kits, hubs, motion detectors, outdoor protection, cameras, video doorbells, fire detectors, water-leak protection, and automation devices for the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Latin America.

Need help selecting the right equipment? Shop Ajax Security can help you design an Ajax system for your home or business and connect compatible systems to 24/7 professional monitoring through Alarm365.